A method is provided for automatically modifying the cutting paths for parts to be cut out from a flexible material by automatically moving a cutter tool along predetermined cutting paths. The cutting paths are associated with each part being defined by a succession of cutting segments forming a polygon. Two cutting segments are identified and belonging to two different parts for cutting out in the material and for which a maximum distance condition between these cutting segments is satisfied. Two cutting segments are verified for being situated facing each other, and that no other cutting segments lie between the two cutting segments. A common cutting path for the two cutting segments is computed, and a common cutting path is connected to the cutting paths of the two parts for cutting out to obtain modified cutting paths for the two parts for cutting out.

An apparatus for portion cutting food items includes a first cutting device which comprises a cutting unit for the cutting of food items into strips. The apparatus includes one or more additional cutting devices, each comprising a cutting unit for cutting the strips into pieces of predetermined weight and dimensions. Measuring means are arranged in the first cutting device for scanning at least one of a shape, a structure and a dimension of the food item. The apparatus further comprises processor means with a control program for the planning of a portion-cutting profile on the basis of the scanning.

A food processing system includes a food slicing machine having a control arrangement for regulating a thickness of slices cut by the machine so that they are cut according to a current value of a slice size parameter. An under-weight signal is generated which is responsive to generation of any under-weight groups of slices by the slicing machine, and an end-of-line weighing device monitors the weight of groups of slices outputted by the system and generates an end-of-line weight signal responsive thereto. The system identifies any under-weight groups of slices so that their weight can be increased by addition of a further slice before being outputted by the system. The control arrangement receives the two signals and determines the value of the slice size parameter having regard to them. The slice size parameter may be adjusted to minimize give-away by the system.